A spokesman for the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), which investigates serious workplace accidents, today said it was aware of the incident and was making initial enquiries but may not launch a formal investigation.

Tesco, which owns the land, is having it cleared to make way for a huge new housing development, including a 21 storey tower it wants to build there. A formal planning application is expected within the next month.

A spokesman from the demolition team working for Tesco today said: "During demolition of the building, two pre-cast wall panels fell.

"We are now working with the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) to understand the cause before recommencing works. We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused."